Garmin GBR 21 - Manual (Page 18)

16
Reference
Sources of
Error
Multipath— Multipath error occurs when the GPS
signal is reflected before it reaches the GPS receiver. The
reflected signal takes slightly longer to reach the GPS
receiver than a non-reflected signal. This added time delay
results in position error. (The distance to each satellite is
calculated based upon the time it takes the GPS signal to
reach the GPS receiver.) Multipath error can be minimized
by mounting the GPS antenna at a location which
minimizes the potential for reflected signals. Generally,
the GPS antenna should be mounted on a large, flat
horizontal surface and away from any vertical structure
(cabin walls, large mast, etc.) which could reflect the GPS
signal.
Number of Satellites Visible— As previously
stated, the number of satellites available can affect
position accuracy. To apply the corrections provided for
the satellites received at the beacon transmitter station, the
same satellites (at least in part) must be received by your
GPS receiver. And, certainly, if there aren’t enough
satellites to determine a GPS position, there aren’t enough
satellites to calculate a DGPS position.
Satellite Geometry— A minimum of 4 satellites are
required to determine a 3D position. At times, additional
satellites are required due to their placement with respect
to each other. This relative placement is referred to as
“satellite geometry”. Ideal satellite geometry exists when
the satellites are located at wide angles with respect to
each other. When satellites are located in a line, satellite
geometry is considered poor.
This same requirement applies to DGPS. If
corrections are available for four different satellites, but
they are all located in the same general area or in a line,
the DGPS corrections will be minimal. However, if the
same four satellites are placed farther apart, in several very
different directions from our position, the corrections will
have a much greater effect and the position accuracy will
be greatly improved.